Press Information Bureau

The MSME Marketing Conclave 2025 was held today at the ASFFDC Auditorium, Panjabari, Guwahati, with a focus on empowering Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through digital marketing and e-commerce linkages under the Trade Enablement and Marketing (TEAM) initiative of the Ministry of MSME, implemented through the National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC). The conclave formed a key part of the Ministry’s Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) programme, aimed at fostering competitiveness and market access for MSMEs across India.

 

The primary objective of the conclave was to sensitize and build awareness among MSMEs about digital market linkages and the opportunities available through platforms such as the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), thereby enabling them to reach wider markets and reduce dependence on traditional marketing channels.

The event was graced by Sushri Shobha Karandlaje, Minister of State, Ministry of MSME, as the Chief Guest, who addressed the gathering and reaffirmed the government’s steadfast commitment to strengthening the MSME ecosystem. In her keynote address, the Minister urged entrepreneurs to adopt digital tools and platforms to expand their market reach, scale operations and enhance competitiveness. She also encouraged MSMEs to leverage initiatives like ONDC to transcend regional boundaries and become part of India’s growing digital commerce landscape. The Union Minister urged the State MSME entrepreneurs to enhance the quality of their products to meet export standards and assured that the Ministry will extend all necessary support and assistance to facilitate their growth in international markets.

In his address, Dr. Subhransu Sekhar Acharya, Chairman-cum-Managing Director, NSIC, highlighted the various schemes and initiatives of the Ministry of MSME designed to support small businesses, including the National SC-ST Hub and NSIC’s range of marketing and credit facilitation programs. He urged MSMEs to make full use of the government’s comprehensive support ecosystem to enhance productivity and visibility in both domestic and global markets.

Shri Mara Kocho, MD, NEHHDC, highlighted that NEHHDC is dedicated to preserving the rich cultural heritage of the North East and supporting its artisans through market linkage, skill development, and entrepreneurship promotion. He outlined NEHHDC’s strategy to expand its presence through new showrooms, enhance digital and e-commerce platforms and facilitate greater participation of artisans in national and international exhibitions. He noted the persistent challenges faced by rural artisans, including limited market access, lack of credit facilities and the need for contemporary design support. Shri Kocho urged the Ministry of MSME to strengthen policy measures to increase institutional procurement from NEHHDC and similar organizations. He also suggested allocating at least 2.5% of CPSE procurement towards handmade and eco-friendly products under CSR and ESG initiatives, which could generate a potential market of Rs. 450 crore annually while advancing women empowerment and sustainability goals. He concluded by thanking the Ministry for its continued support and reaffirmed NEHHDC’s commitment to improving the livelihoods of North East artisans.

Recognising their vital role in nurturing the MSME ecosystem, industry associations and banking institutions were felicitated during the event. Several bankers expressed willingness to extend loan facilitation services through NSIC to further assist MSMEs in scaling their operations.

 

The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Sh. Mainak Bandyopadhyay, Senior Branch Manager, NSIC, Guwahati, who extended gratitude to all dignitaries, participants, and members of the media for their support and participation.

In its endeavor to support more and more MSMEs with credit support from Banks under its MSME Credit facilitation program, National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC) entered into Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Kotak Mahindra Bank on 30th October, 2025 during MSME Conclave held at Guwahati.

The conclave witnessed the presence of several eminent dignitaries, including Sh. Kartikeya Sinha, Director (Planning & Marketing), NSIC; Sh. Mara Kocho (IES), Managing Director, NEHHDC; Shri PVSLN Murty, Chairman, NEDFi; Sh. Vidya Sagar Singh, Senior General Manager, NSIC; and Dr. Hrishikesh Baruah, Principal, K.C. Das Commerce College, Guwahati, along with officials from banks, industry associations and central and state government departments.

 

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PG/SM

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